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Speaker Upgrade Recommendation for Current Analog System - under $10,000 Budget

Music lovers/audiophiles, looking for input.
Considering a speaker upgrade to full range, floorstanders. Current analog system setup - recent full upgrade to Jolida JD 202 intergated amp. (40 watts), VPI Scout w JM 9 arm, Benz Mirco L2 cart, Tyler Acoustic Reference Monitors, ACI Force sub, Jolida JD 100 CD player. Have enjoyed current system for 15+ yrs. COVID and my location presents a challenge to auditioning. Based on articles and reviews narrowed considerartion to Salk Songbird3 BeAT, GoldenEar Triton One.R, Nola Contender S3. Refined to GoldenEar and Nola speakers. Seems GoldenEar may be the easiest for place in room. Reviews show them to share simular sound signature. Alternative option: switch out ACI Force for two Rythmik F12G subs, upgrade phono pre-amp and call it a day.
Listening room - 12' X 30' (configuration - odd shaped third floor (main room has window well, with narrow 6 ft. hallway to steps w/ separate room by steps). Favorite genries: Jazz and R&B, however, love music (1500 LP's). Probably last system change, looking at retirement with more time to enjoy my music. Appreciate the input.              
wah8dy

Showing 5 responses by steve59

steve59's avatar
steve59
1,838 posts
 
Hi berner99, I’m seeing lots of the harman curve, dr toole speak on many hifi forums lately and while my musical tastes have me going other directions there is a huge push for the waveguide/ wide dispersion being preffered 
steve59's avatar
steve59
1,838 posts
 
I went on an upgrade quest for my 20 yo VA beethovens and ended up spending so much more for speakers that still were a compromise. If you like what you have and just want more go bigger. changing brands will probably disappoint as you're used to the sound from the 15 yo speakers you're replacing.
steve59's avatar
steve59
1,838 posts
 
I’m currently enjoying the personas, but it’s nice to be able to get several of the big names at home to at least understand what the fuss is all about. 
steve59's avatar
steve59
1,838 posts
 
I have had speakers that are exceptional when sitting in the sweet spot, but the current ‘market spin’ would have us all buy wide dispersion speakers for even room response. I listen at night to wind down and the 3D soundstage is more important to me than tonal balance from every seat in the room. You need to prioritize. 
steve59's avatar
steve59
1,838 posts
 
It's like rolling the dice. Most of the time speakers are what they are, but there's that one spot in the room that elusive spot where the bass grips you and when the bass comes rolling in like waves like waves on the beach every else just falls into place.
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